In 2017, Pivac steered the Scarlets to their first major trophy in 13 years, securing the Pro12 title in Dublin with a comfortable win over Munster.

Wayne Pivac was announced as the next Wales boss in a press conference this afternoon and WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips said: “We have secured the best man for the job and we have done so rigorously and decisively.

“There is no underestimating the positive benefit to be gained from having the time to plan properly for the future.

“We have avoided the feeding frenzy that can come at the end of a RWC year and we have been meticulous in ensuring we have someone of the talent, experience, charisma and rugby acumen to do the very best possible job for Welsh rugby.

“The handover process is something we will plan carefully and commence in detail next summer.”

Pivac also had his say after landing the number one job at the Principality Stadium. He added: “What Martyn Phillips has achieved here is fairly unique in world sport, I have a further 12 months to dedicate my time to the Scarlets and, in the background, the necessary plans and preparations can be put in place to ensure a smooth transition after the World Cup.

“To be able to complete the process this far in advance helps the Scarlets, helps Wales and affords me the luxury of time in which to prepare in earnest for one of the biggest jobs in the world game.”

Speaking to BBC Sport, current boss Warren Gatland offered approval of his successor, saying he would help in the transition to Pivac. He said: “I’m determined to ensure that Wayne is given the best possible opportunity to succeed in this job when he starts after the World Cup and I will do everything I can to help him.”